Information on 1300 mg Horny Goat Weed Capsules

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MICHELLE KERNS Last Updated: Oct 27, 2015

Michelle Kerns

Michelle Kerns writes for a variety of print and online publications and specializes in literature and science topics. She has served as a book columnist since 2008 and is a member of the National Book Critics Circle. Kerns studied English literature and neurology at UC Davis.

Horny goat weed is one of the common names of Epimedium grandiflorum, an herb that was traditionally used by many ancient Asian cultures as an aphrodisiac and treatment for sexual problems, particularly in men, according to Drugs.com. Modern manufacturers market horny goat weed capsules of varying dosages as a natural treatment for a wide variety of sexual dysfunctions; however, there is little evidence to indicate whether dosages as high as 1,300 milligrams of horny goat weed are a viable treatment for any sexual condition.

Aspects

Horny goat weed is native to the hills and rocky areas of large parts of Asia, including sections of China, Korea and Japan, where it is known by the common names barrenwort or arrow-leaf. According to Drugs.com, the leaves of the plant were used in tonics purported to help male sexual performance by increasing sperm and testosterone production, curing impotence, increasing sexual arousal and preventing problems with premature ejaculation, as well as treating kidney, liver and joint disorders.

Uses

Horny goat weed is thought to contain compounds that can improve sexual function in men by increasing blood flow and by possibly inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase which, in turn, is thought to increase the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain that control sexual arousal, according to RxList.com. The herb is also believed to contain an array of phytoestrogen compounds that may prove useful in preventing osteoporosis in women after menopause. Alternative medicine practitioners also contend that horny goat weed use is helpful in treating liver problems, respiratory problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, fatigue and memory loss.

Dosages

There have not been sufficient scientific studies on the effectiveness and safety of horny goat weed supplementation for a recommended dosage to be determined; however, most commercial producers of the supplements manufacture capsules that contain from 500 to 750 milligrams of horny goat weed, often combined with other natural compounds believed to be aphrodisiacs, such as maca pure, polypodium vulgare and macuna pruriens. Capsules containing 1,300 mg of horny goat weed are rare--most manufacturers recommend a dosage of the herb ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 mg, which can be obtained by taking two capsules of a smaller dosage.

Side Effects

Allergies to the herb itself can cause reactions in sensitive individuals: hives, difficulty breathing, rashes and unusual swelling in the face, lips, tongue and throat, according to Drugs.com. While short-term use of low doses of horny goat weed appear to not be connected to any side effects, using high dosages over a long period of time may cause vomiting, dry mouth, excessive thirst, dizziness, muscle spasms, respiratory problems and nosebleeds. Pregnant and nursing women and individuals diagnosed with hypotension, or low blood pressure, are recommended to avoid using the herb. In addition, RxList.com reports that horny goat weed use may interfere with the action of anticoagulants and high blood pressure medications.

Considerations

Little clinical data support any of the claims that proponents and manufacturers of horny goat weed capsules make about the sexual enhancement provided by regular supplementation. As a dietary supplement, horny goat weed is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for purity, effectiveness or safety. Consult your doctor if you are interested in taking the herb for any reason.

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